Jesus preaches that He himself is the gate of the sheepfold that opens to let the sheep enter in and closes in protection and care. Jesus has come for one reason, that is, “that we might have life and life in all its fullness.” Jesus did everything to welcome all sheep. No sacrifice was too great to prove His concern for their welfare. He even died on the cross to open the gate of heaven again. If a sheep does not enter, it is not because of a lack of effort or care on Jesus’ part. There are times he closes the door and locks out people who threaten the flock.
Jesus says He is the gate through which we come in and go out and find pasture. He is the door through which we go to God and to our neighbor. There is the time for prayer when we close the door to be with God and there is the time to open the door to be with people. Both provide pasture, are nourishing experiences and make us grow in faith and love. Jesus is the door that lets people enter and go out.
